Tanzania Upgrades Eco-Tourism Infrastructure Ahead of AFCON 2027
Tanzania is investing in eco-tourism infrastructure within its forest reserves in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which the country will co-host alongside Kenya and Uganda across cities including Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Arusha. The initiative is being led by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) in partnership with tourism stakeholders, with development focused on sites including the Lake Duluti Forest Reserve in Arusha Region. At least 30 accommodation units have already been constructed at Lake Duluti, with capacity to receive up to 60 visitors per day, as part of a broader push to build lodges and visitor facilities within forest reserves ahead of the tournament.
Private investors are also expanding capacity in the region, with Meru Eco Camp developing new eco-friendly lodges and camping facilities aligned with conservation principles. Tourism officials have highlighted the range of activities available within the reserves - including canoeing, fishing, and boat rides on the lake - and are encouraging young entrepreneurs to invest in tourism-related services such as food vending and transport to capitalise on expected visitor volumes. The dual focus on infrastructure development and conservation-aligned investment signals Tanzania's intent to use AFCON 2027 as a catalyst for longer-term growth in its eco-tourism sector.
Source: Daily News Tanzania